Everything you need to know about the upcoming cyclone season

The Bureau of Meteorology has said Australia is likely to experience a quiet cyclone season, due to the strong El Nino cycle in the Pacific Ocean – however residents are being warned to remain vigilant and prepared for potential wild weather.

In their official outlook for the 2015/16 season, the BOM said despite the low likelihood of an increase in cyclones from previous years, communities in Far North Queensland were still at risk.

The season, which runs from November 1 until April 30, usually averages around 11 tropical cyclones.

Climate prediction services manager Andrew Watkins said people in the tropics still need to prepare their homes for the worst.

“While El Nino is typically associated with fewer cyclones and a later start to the season, there has never been a cyclone season without at least one tropical cyclone crossing the Australian coast," he said.

Dr Watkins said even tropical cyclones well offshore could have significant effects on coastal areas and small cyclones could devastate communities.

"In January 2013, Oswald caused major flooding for virtually the entire Queensland coast as it tracked steadily south as an ex-tropical cyclone, or tropical low," he said.

* a first aid kit and manual, masking tape for windows and waterproof bags.

* Keep a list of emergency phone numbers on display.

* Check neighbours to make sure they are prepared.

When a cyclone warning is issued

• If requested by local authorities, collect children from school or childcare centre and go home.

• Park vehicles under solid shelter (hand brake on and in gear).

• Put wooden or plastic outdoor furniture in your pool or inside with other loose items.

• Close shutters or board-up or heavily tape all windows. Draw curtains and lock doors.

• Pack an evacuation kit of warm clothes, essential medications, baby formula, nappies, valuables, important papers, photos and mementos in waterproof bags to be taken with your emergency kit. Large/heavy valuables could be protected in a strong cupboard.